Maasvlakte 2 will be situated in the Voordelta, a coastal delta. This is a protected nature reserve. Birds and sea animals and seabed creatures are deprived of their habitat and it is harder for them to find food. To compensate for Maasvlakte 2's construction, a seabed protection area has therefore been instituted off the coast of Schouwen-Duiveland, Goeree-Overflakkee and Voorne-Putten. In this area, sea life to the south of the Maasvlakte gets extra protection. The seabed protection area (25,000 ha) is over ten times as large as the land reclamation (2000 ha).

Nature has priority

Nature gets priority in the seabed protection area. Fish and birds - such as the common tern or the common scoter - can search for food here undisturbed. Seals can rest on the tidal sandbanks. By defining the area as a seabed protection area, the local users are also being asked to take a step back.

Recreational users remain welcome, though the nature of the recreation may change. Boisterous or annoying activities are subject to rules in various places. These might be the use of speedboats, jet skis or hang-gliders. No restrictions apply to beach visitors.

Discussion with parties involved

Restrictions apply to fishery in the seabed protection area. From now on, fishermen must leave the seabed alone. Extensive consultation has taken place with the parties involved and organisations and municipalities about the consequences of the seabed protection area.

The State is responsible

As dictated by the European rules for environmental compensation, the seabed protection area was instituted before Maasvlakte 2's construction started. The State is responsible for the institution and management of the seabed protection area.